Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006
(Commencement No.3) 1st October 2007
From 1st October 2007 it is an offence to manufacture, import or sell realistic imitation firearms unless it is connected with one of the following:
- a museum or gallery;
- theatrical performances or rehearsals;
- the production of films or television;
- the organisation and holding of historical re-enactments;
- Crown servants;
- members of Softair Skirmishing Groups with third party liability insurance;
- members of historical re-enactment groups with third part liability insurance.
A minimum age of 18 is introuced for the purchase and sale of imitation firearms. There are no restrictions imposed on imitation firearms which are gifted or loaned.
This Act does not further restrict the legal possession of imitation firearms. Licensing is not required for imitation firearms. However it must be remembered that it is a serious offence to have in a public place without good reason any firearm. This includes imitation, replica, BB guns and soft air weapons and deactivated firearms.
The Violent Crime Reduction Act does not impose any restriction on deactivated firearms.
